This September, state pensioners could receive a cash boost, with households that include a member on the state pension possibly qualified to receive freebies and discounts worth up to £3,262.
DWP Offers State Pensioners Extra Support to Ease Cost of Living Pressures
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers several benefits to help seniors manage the ongoing cost of living issue.
Along with weekly state pension payments that currently support over 12.6 million Britons aged 66 and older, pensioners also have access to various benefits such as free dental treatment, a free TV licence, and council tax discounts, according to the Express.
Council Tax Discount: £2,171
People receiving state pensions may be eligible for a Council Tax discount, which might result in major savings on their annual expenses. A person's eligibility for this discount is determined by variables including their income, where they live, and if a retired person lives alone or with individuals who are exempt from paying council tax.
People on a tight budget or receiving benefits such as Pension Credit are a greater probability to qualify, hence checking with your local council to see what assistance is available. The amount of discount differs, nevertheless some people are eligible for up to 100% off.
Free TV Licence: £169
People living in Britain aged 75 and over who receive Pension Credit are eligible for a free TV licence, which could potentially save £169 annually.
Those who have paid for a TV Licence when they were qualified for a free one may be entitled to a refund. TV Licensing stated that in certain cases, the refund will be processed as part of the application.
Free Dental Treatment: £282
Brits can get free dental care if they or their partner receive particular benefits, which could potentially save them hundreds of pounds each year. Qualifying benefits include:
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit
- Pension Credit Guarantee Credit with Savings Credit
- Universal Credit (depending on earnings)
Social tariffs: £234
A vast variety of broadband providers provide discounted social tariff packages, and according to Ofcom, monthly rates now range from £10 to £23.00. Social tariffs are available to persons with low incomes or who get specific benefits, and they are much less expensive than standard deals.
Free Bus Pass: £128
State pension recipients are entitled to free bus travel across the country, resulting in an average annual savings of £128 depending on the cost of bus tickets and how frequently pensioners use the free tickets.
Meanwhile, London residents over the age of 60 have free access to public transit, including trips on trains, buses, and the Underground.
Free Insulation: £1,000
The Great British Insulation Scheme may provide people with free or low-cost insulation to help them save money on their home's energy bills. Households may receive support if their home:
- Offers an energy performance certificate (EPC) from D to G (check EPC).
- Is in Council Tax bands A to D in England, or A to E in Scotland and Wales (see Council Tax band).
Water Bill Discounts: £160
According to Money Saving Expert (MSE), 5.7 million households could cut up to £160 on their water bills each year thanks to social tariff support schemes.
These initiatives are typically offered to people with a household income of below £17,005 (excluding benefits), or £21,749 if they reside in a London Borough.
Free Prescriptions: £118
People over the age of 60 can receive free prescriptions from the NHS, which can result in significant savings given this year's price increase.
If able to qualify, people can often access free medication from a pharmacy for mild illnesses through the NHS minor ailments plan.
Currently, the scheme is extensively offered in Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland, but only in a few pharmacies throughout England. The drugs covered by the system may also vary depending on where the person lives, thus it is recommended that consumers speak with their local pharmacy regarding the medications they offer.